Last Updated on January 24, 2020
Sports cameras aren’t just for taking action scenes. They can be used just about any way you like it. Some even are daring enough to load their cameras into a dishwasher to get to see the internal process. But when you want great footage from an action camera, surely you’d never go wrong with one capable of 4K resolution.
More 4K Cameras have been released, have a look at the latest ones here > 4K Action Cameras
Here is a list of the best 4K action sports cameras in the market:
A lot has changed since GoPro released their first action camera back in 2005. Over the years, we’ve seen these gadgets decrease in size but we’ve also witnessed their video quality get better. The extra features have been improving as well with some cameras being waterproof or shockproof and some used for live broadcasts.
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The market is filled with action cameras but not all can capture 4K video. This post takes a look at the 4K action cameras that made an impression in 2016. Popular models will of course be present but this list will also look at the lesser known models.
GoPro Hero5 Black
GoPro is the go-to brand when it comes to action cameras and they proved it yet again with the Hero5 family. The Hero5 Black is best described as simple but powerful. Shooting videos is much smoother and it can capture RAW images. The camera also has a Wide Dynamic range feature and a rear touchscreen.
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Sony FDR-X3000
With the FDR-X3000, Sony found a way to make their Balanced Optical SteadyShot (BOSS) technology work for a much smaller camera. BOSS counteracts hand movements which results in steadier videos which is a big deal when it comes to action cameras, especially one capable of shooting in 4K. Although pricey, the FDR-X3000 does produce stable footage and excellent still image quality.
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GoPro Hero5 Session
The Hero5 Session shares many features with the Hero5 Black despite being a much smaller camera. Like the HeroBlack, it is capable of shooting stabilized 4K footage as well as capturing wide angles. It is an improvement over the Hero4 Session thanks to its enhanced camera sensor and video stabilization.
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Olympus TG-Tracker
This is Olympus’ first offering for the action camera market and it’s not a bad introduction. The camera may differ from the traditional boxy type shape that competitors sport but it has more or less the same features. The TG-Tracker is waterproof and captures quality stills and 4K video.
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Kodak Pixpro SP360
The Kodak Pixpro SP360 4K action camera is much improved over the first version that was released in 2014. The video quality with this model is a lot better and who could resist the 360-degree coverage? Although it needs better software, it has enough good qualities to make a dependable action camera.
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Yi 4K Action Camera
If looks alone were to be considered, you could easily forgive someone for mistaking the Yi 4K for a GoPro Hero4 Black. So what makes them different? The price is a good starting point with the Yi 4K costing much less. Although GoPro may edge it out slightly in terms of capabilities, the Yi 4K wins in terms of battery life.
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360fly 4K
The 360fly 4K plays in the same field as the Pixpro SP360 4K camera. Like that camera, it is capable of taking 360-degree footage at 4K resolution. The camera is also waterproof up to 30 feet. But despite its interesting features, there’s still a lot of improvement to go with the 360fly 4K.
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Ricoh WG-M2
With the WG-M2, those who like the outdoors – particularly the sea – have found a trusted companion. Although the camera is waterproof up to 60 feet, it’s still not deep enough for actual underwater enjoyment. While this camera is great at capturing video, it doesn’t fare too well with stills.
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Garmin Virb Ultra 30
Add this model to the list of action cameras that look suspiciously like the GoPro Hero4 Black. Yes, the Ultra 30 may look similar and have more or less the same features but audio quality is where this camera stands out. Another great thing about the Ultra 30 is it can be commanded through voice.
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TomTom Bandit Action Camera
Action cameras excel at recording the moment but only a few allow these moments to be shared easily. This is one of the Bandit’s stronger points: videos can be uploaded without going through much fuss. The quality of video is also excellent as is battery life. Charging can be done through USB and additional battery packs are available as well. It’s a serious competitor to the GoPro.
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2016 saw the release of a number of 4K-capable devices. As such, there’s so much to look forward to in 2017. We can expect to see 4K-capable action cameras with much improved specifications and capabilities. The past years have shown just how much technology has advanced so who knows what makers have up their sleeve for this year.
#1: GoPro Hero 4
Dubbed as the “most advanced GoPro ever” by the company that made it, this camera does deliver next-level greatness. It has a very powerful processor that can shoot 4K video at 30fps and 1080p up to 120fps. Apart from delivering footage that is sharp, rich and detailed, the camera has a combination of powerful new features and technologies that enhance user experience.
#2: Haip Waterproof WiFi Ultra-HD 4K Action Sports Camera
This camera is an ultra HD 4K action camera that comes with a 30M waterproof housing. The camera is also capable of WiFi remote control function. Other features of this camera include burst photo, self-timer, exposure adjust, date stamp and HDMI TV out.
#3: Sony FDR-X1000V 4K Action Cam
The FDR-X1000V Action Cam from Sony features 4K recording along with 120 fps full HD slow-motion capture. This camcorder was designed to be versatile and splash resistant so you can take it wherever you want, be it a simple walk in the park or an adventure up in the mountains.
With WiFi capability, users can operate the camera remotely through their mobile device or through the RMLVR2 Live-View Remote. With a 33′-rated underwater housing, this camera is waterproof and splash proof.
#4: AEE S71 4K Sports Camera
AEE-S71-action-camera
Featuring a 328-feet WiFi reach, the AEE S71 allows users to connect either an iOS or Android device to the camera and control it remotely using an app. Just like any other camera, users can review and perform basic edits and then save the changes to a microSD card.
The 1/2.3” CMOS sensor allows the S71 to capture ultra HD 4K video at 15 and 12 fps, 2.7K at 30 and 24 fps, 1080p at 60/48/30/24 fps, 960p and 720p HD. The S71 can also capture still images at 16MP in standard mode, action bursts of 10 frames and timer delay mode.
#5: HX-A500E-K 4K Action Camera
This wearable 4K action cam comes in at just 1.6 ounces and 3.3” in length. It is capable of capturing 4K POV footage and has a “quad-proof” rugged design that can withstand water up to depths of 5′. It’s also shockproof if dropped up to 5′, dustproof and freezeproof (up to 14 degrees Fahrenheit).
The HX-A500E comes with several mounts and accessories that you can attach it to a helmet, a bike, a board or any other gear that allows hands-free shooting. The camera also comes with a tripod mount and a multi mount so you can attach it to helmets, goggles and shoulder bags.
#6:Kodak SP 360 4K Camera
Featuring a dome-shaped fixed lens, this camera is capable of recording a 4K 360-degree fisheye view of the surroundings. In addition to that, it comes with multiple modes to show how an image is unfolded and viewed. The viewing options include: 360-degree panorama mode, full circular fisheye view, dual front 180-degree and rear 180 degree mode for capturing POV and reactions.
The SP360 has a compact and rugged design that is also freezeproof at up to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also waterproof up to depths of 197′ and it comes with a variety of mounting accessories.
